It is impossible to ignore the fact that women are running the cultural show. From smashing stereotypes to creating new ones, women have been quietly—and not-so-quietly—reshaping the landscape. Whether through art, media, or movements, these shifts are a testament to the growing force of female influence, and they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Ahead, the key moments that showcase how female voices have shaped, and continue to shape, culture—no apologies, no holding back.
Age is Just a Number
The entertainment industry has long sidelined older women, but a shift is underway. Demi Moore’s win for The Substance and her speech at the Golden Globes challenged the industry’s narrow view of aging, demonstrating that women in their 50s and beyond can be just as dynamic and powerful on screen. This victory signifies a broader cultural acceptance—women’s power doesn’t fade with age.
The Power of Setting Boundaries
At Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS World Tour premiere, Chappell Roan made a powerful statement by demanding an apology from a photographer who had been disrespectful to her at a previous event. Roan accused the photographer of having yelled at her during a Grammy party, and she took matters into her own hands at the premiere by confronting him directly on the red carpet. “I deserve an apology for that,” she said, asserting her right to be treated with respect. This moment emphasized the importance of women setting boundaries, and that women can and should demand respect in any professional environment.
The Desirable Middle-Aged Women’s Renaissance
The narrative surrounding middle-aged women is undergoing a much-needed transformation, with Robinne Lee’s novel The Idea of You and its film adaptation sparking a renaissance that celebrates women in their 40s and beyond as empowered, attractive, and desirable.
Owning Your Sexuality
Babygirl and Sabrina Carpenter’s musical journey explore the intricacies of female sexuality in a way that challenges traditional narratives. The film boldly portrays women taking ownership of their desires, while Carpenter’s music delves into themes of independence and self-discovery. Carpenter has also been dominating the music scene so far in 2025, with chart-topping hits and widespread critical acclaim. These works contribute to the ongoing shift in how women’s sexuality is portrayed in media.
Gisèle Pelicot Takes a Stand in French Mass Rape Trial
In a historic moment, Gisèle Pelicot took a courageous stand in the French mass rape trial, playing a key role in demanding justice. Her fight—and win—in the courtroom sent a clear message about the power of women to challenge systemic violence and demand accountability. By speaking out, Pelicot not only fought for justice but also contributed to the broader movement for survivors’ rights—an empowering moment that resonates beyond the legal sphere.
Davika Hoorne, The First Southeast Asian Cover Star on MEGA
Davika, Thailand’s superstar actress, made history by becoming the first Southeast Asian cover star of MEGA Magazine. With this achievement, Davika reinforces the importance of representation in mainstream culture, symbolizing the growing prominence of Southeast Asian women in global media and fashion.
Filipinas Steal the Spotlight at International Festivals
Antoinette Jadaone’s Sunshine was featured at both the Toronto and Berlin Film Festivals, showcasing Filipino talent on the international stage. Sabrina Pimentel’s Kundiman ng Alon also premiered at Venice in 2024, marking a significant milestone for Filipino cinema. These films highlight the increasing visibility of Southeast Asian women in global cinema and open doors for more inclusive storytelling.
Challenging Norms in Bold Moves
In Incognito, Maris Racal made a bold move by appearing in a scene where she ran only in her bra and underwear, challenging traditional standards of modesty—a moment that would typically be seen as controversial in a conservative country like the Philippines. Her portrayal of a character embracing her body and rejecting the constraints often placed on women in media marked an empowering moment for Filipinas.
Meanwhile, Kaila Estrada’s character, Max Alvero, a cyber ops specialist, broke another stereotype. Typically, this trope of the tech-savvy expert is reserved for the nerdy male characters, but Estrada’s role upends that convention, showing that women can own such roles without being defined by traditional expectations.
Women in Horror: Leading the Scream Scene
Women are making their mark in the horror genre, traditionally dominated by male directors and protagonists. Films like Nosferatu and The Substance feature captivating female characters, proving that women can terrify, thrill, and captivate audiences just as powerfully as their male counterparts.
These moments have shown that women are no longer waiting for permission to take the spotlight—they’re seizing it and taking control. In music, film, and beyond, they’ve challenged norms, shattered ceilings, and made their presence impossible to ignore. Their voices are louder, their influence stronger, and their impact undeniable. From big wins to quiet revolutions, these moments prove that women are not just participants in the culture—they’re shaping it.
Photos and Featured Image: MEGA ARCHIVES, IMDB, BBC (via Website), CHAPPELL ROAN, SABRINA CARPENTER, DOOKIE DUCAY, KAILA ESTRADA (via Instagram)
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